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Stephen Mather Obituary

MATHER, STEPHEN TODD, 35, of Louisville, died Friday, December 9, 2005. He was a tennis professional at the Tennis Club at Springhurst, a graduate of Trinity High School and the University of Kentucky and a member of the Kentucky Tennis Hall of Fame. He is survived by his parents, Innes and Rose Mather; brothers, Christopher (Debbie) Mather and Michael (Ginni) Mather; grandfather, Sylvester Mather; and grandmother, Jean Alvey.He is also survived by nieces, Abbie and Meggie, and nephew, Dylan Mather. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday at Mother of Good Council Catholic Church, 8509 Westport Road, with burial in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. on Monday at Pearson-Ratterman Brothers, 12900 Shelbyville Road. Memorial gifts may be made to Trinity High School Foundation.

Previously published in The Courier-Journal

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Courier-Journal from Dec. 18 to Dec. 19, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Mather

Not sure what to say?





Curly Davis

December 12, 2023

"I miss you and I think about you often, Stephen."

Curly Davis

December 12, 2022

I mention Stephan to many of my clients in a living way. He was the most talented tennis player I´ve ever coached. As a person his personality was engaging and delightful. Miss you Stephan.

Dennis Emery

December 12, 2019

Innes. I continue to have so many great memories of Stephen. While it want always smooth he was a real joy to coach. He and mahyar were quite a pair to have on the team at the same time. We only one two championships in the history of the school and we dont win in 92 without his tennis skill but also his competitiveness. I think of Stephen often Dennis Emery

November 28, 2006

We miss you Stephen. Happy Birthday.

Jeff McLean

January 11, 2006

Dear Mather Family,

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Steve. My childhood years were so much richer because of my time knowing Steve and playing tennis with him. Playing with Steve was always a joy and a challenge. A challenge because he was so good. I felt honored just being around him. What a great person! Steve was kind and humble. He always displayed dignity and class. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. May JESUS Himself give you comfort and peace...

And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomparable riches of His Grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by Grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-not by works so that no man can boast.

-Ephesians 2:6-9

I am grateful I had the Grace to be touched by Steve's life. My deepest condolences to you.



Jeff McLean

Teresa Baker

January 10, 2006

Dear Chris and the Mather Family,

I just wanted you to know that we're thinking of you and your family during this time of great loss. During the holidays, all of our thoughts and prayers were with your family. Stephen was a great coach and he will be greatly missed - his practices were fun but especially challenging because although he made you laugh, he also gave you a good workout while you were laughing.

Prayers, Thoughts and Hugs from Utah. Sincerely, Teresa

Kelly Murphy

January 4, 2006

I just learned of this news today. I am in shock and terribly saddened by the loss. He will be greatly missed.



Some of my fondest memories of him were at group lessons at the club and one of the things that made my face light up was when I actually hit a good shot or two and he used the Stephen word "exquisite".



Well Stephen, YOU were exquisite and you touched so many people by your talent for tennis, friendly nature and great sense of humor.



My prayers go out to Chris and the rest of the Mather family during such a difficult time.



With my most sincere sympathies,

Kelly J Murphy



(Springhurst Tennis Club alum, friend of Stephen, and the "cupid" behind his introduction to my good friend Meredith Little)

Scott Treibly

January 2, 2006

Dear Mather Family,



I was deeply saddened to hear the news about Stephen.



As a tennis player he did not like to practice, but when it was "game time" he provided winning results over and over again. As a teamate at the University of Kentucky he always kept the team relaxed with his easy going personality and funny jokes.



Stephen was a great guy and will be missed by everyone in the game of tennis and the game of life.



My heartfelt condolences to Innis, Tootie, Chris, Michael and their familes.



Sincerely,



Scott Treibly

Michael Hopkinson

December 29, 2005

My deepest condolences to the Mather family. As a teammate and classmate of Steve's at UK I am deeply shocked and saddened by his death. He was a good teammate and funny guy who would never hurt anyone. I remember his vivid sense of humor on road trips and practice and his genuine friendliness. I hope I speak for everyone when I say that he was a very well respected player, student and most importantly overall human being that will be truly missed by all that knew him.

Tom Simms

December 27, 2005

Mather Family,



My thoughts & prayers have been with you since Stephen's death. Steve was always a favorite during my time at Trinity. He was a sincere, fun & friendly person who always had a kind word to say. Hopefully, your family, faith and great memories will be a solace. Steve has escaped the bonds of this imperfect world..may he find great joy & peace in Heaven. Stephen will live in our hearts forever.



Sincerely,

Tom Simms

(Stephen's History teacher at THS)

Larry & Charlotte Robbins

December 27, 2005

Mr. & Mrs. Mather & Sons:

Grief only comes in one size....Extra Large !!! Our love and concern come in that same size. A life shared together holds many memories. May those memories keep you company during this time of sorrow. We are praying and thinking of you during this time of pain and hoping you'll find the peace you need during your journey.



(Parents of Robert Whitney Robbins

Trinity Class of 2003)

jason wright

December 26, 2005

i worked with stephen at blairwood back in 1996-97'. what a great guy. he always had some kind of one liner to make us smile at the front desk. he was definately one of my favorite tennis pros, and i will alway cherish the jokes between him, tara, and i. you will be greatly missed

in my prayers

jason

Kelly O'Hern

December 25, 2005

Dear Stephen,



Merry Christmas. Thank you for being a very, very good friend. You said to me, “The reason the Rocks did so well” is because the way we cheered them. I believe that is true. I enjoyed sitting in the parking lot, consuming a couple of beverages and cheering on the Rocks while listening to them on the radio. We shared a lot of good times during those four weeks. The St. X/Trinity game was absolutely the best game that I have ever been to, even though we didn’t even go inside the stadium; shooting the breeze, rooting on our team and acting like a couple of kids; than I’ve ever had before. I’ll tell you I’ve enjoyed every moment that I ever spent with you. Even the times when you’d call me or Courtney at midnight and talk for hours. We truly miss those conversations. You were pretty good at tennis, too…. I know, you were exquisite. Thank you for the hours and hours of lessons you gave me. The next time I go out on the court, I will try and remember to “brush the ball”.

You will also be happy to hear that Chris gave a very nice eulogy and told your two famous jokes (fire in circus and Shaq with a radio) with absolute perfection.

Walt finally got to meet Courtney. He really is a super great guy. We talked about next year’s Trinity playoff games and he said that he would help root on the Rocks, especially against Henry Clay.

Thank you for being a great friend to me and my family. You will be deeply missed.

I love you,



Kelly O’Hern and Family

seth brislin

December 24, 2005

Dear Mather Family,

Stephen was my coach and friend since 2nd grade. He taught me how to play tennis, and talked me into going to trinity among other things. I owe alot to him he was always there for me and i always looked up to him. I pray for you all and him everyday.

Dennis Emery

December 23, 2005

Innes and family,

I am so sorry for your loss of Stephen. What a great guy and competitor. He was unique as a person and as a player but as I have told many people he was simply a winner in so many facets of life and the game. I will really miss the times and talks that I would have loved to have had with him. You should be very proud of his accomplishments and his life. He touched so many people in a positive way.

Johnny Lu

December 22, 2005

I will always remember how Stephen used to string a bunch of my rackets before I travelled to tournaments and even drove to my house to drop them off. He also gave me a whooping on the court in our practice matches. I will miss Stephen because he made being at the club fun while still being humble and kind. I pray for peace of mind for all those who loved Stephen, especially the Mather family. Johnny

Andy Potter

December 21, 2005

My heartfelt condolences go out to the Mather family - Stephen was the most unselfish teammate one could ever have. I will always remember the good times and laughs we shared on road trips, in the dorms, and at that hamburger joint "Tolly-Ho". Stephen was the guy who always seemed to win yet his deameanor would never change. His sense of humor and humbleness will stay with me forever.

DINA ENGLISH

December 20, 2005

TO THE ENTIRE MATHER FAMILY::

MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME. STEPHEN MEANT A LOT TO ME AS I HAVE KNOWN HIM SINCE THE FIRST DAY I PICKED UP A RACQUET AT BLAIRWOOD. STEPHEN ALWAYS SAID TO ME THAT I MUSTVE PUT A LITTLE "ENGLISH" ON THAT BALL. HE AMUSED HIMSELF AND ME EVERY TIME I HIT WITH HIM. I THINK OF YOU ALL AS FAMILY AND WOULD HAVE BEEN THERE TODAY IF I DIDNT HAVE THE FLU. I LOVE YOU ALL, AND WILLIAM AND GREG AND MICHAEL. YOU ARE ALL EXTENDED FAMILY TO ME AS WAS STEPHEN AND HE WILL LIVE ON IN MY HEART. WITH MY SYMPATHY, DINA ENGLISH

LAUREN MALONE

December 20, 2005

STEPHEN WAS ONE OF MY TENNIS COACHES AT SPRINGHURT. HE WAS SUCH A FUN AND ENRGETIC PERSON. WHEN EVER I WOULD MAKE A GOOD SHOT HE WOULD SAY, "EXQUISITE." I THOUGHT IT WAS SUCH A FUNNY WORD TO USE ON THE TENNIS COURT.

HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.

Nanette Simon

December 20, 2005

To the Entire Mather Family,



Although I did not know Stephen well, the memories I have of him all leave me with a big smile. Whenever he subbed for our team, he always made tennis so fun, and he was so funny!! He would always hike his shorts up and act really goofy. He always went out of his way to say hello, and he ways always full of smiles. I am thinking of your family and praying for your family, and will have a mass said for you all during this holiday. Lots of Love and Prayers, Nanette Simon

Ian Skidmore

December 20, 2005

My deepest heart felt sympathies are extended to the Mather family. Stephen was my teammate and my friend while at Kentucky. He never failed to make me smile or laugh. I'll never forget Stephen's talented imitations of friends or common acquaintances. They were hilarious. He truly had a kind and caring heart. Stephen will be sorely missed by everybody that had the blessing of knowing him.

Pam Ruckriegel

December 20, 2005

To the Mather Family,



There are simply no words that can convey what sadness we all feel with Stephen's passing. Tootie and Chris, know that my heart goes out to you and your entire family.



I met Stephen a few years ago when I started going to his fast feed and then later enjoyed having him as my USTA coach with Chris. He was always full of fun and stupid jokes, and he made us all enjoy working hard on the court. When I joined another team the following year and didn't have the pleasure of having Stephen as my coach, it would be a joyful surprise to come to practice to find that Stephen was there to sub. I don't think I'll ever be able to hear or use the word "exquisite" again without thinking fondly of Stephen. And thanks to Stephen, I've nearly stopped trying to hit winners from the baseline.



Rest in peace, Stephen.

Earline Wence

December 19, 2005

To The Mather Family,



We were so sorry to hear of Stephen's death. We both have had the opportunity to have Stephen work with us on the tennis court and always found him to be pleasant and helpful. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time of sorrow.



Larry and Earline Wence

Tara Hubbuch

December 19, 2005

I know I already wrote something yesterday, but I keep thinking of all these great memories of Stephen so I wanted to add another entry. As everyone knows, Stephen loved his Trinity Shamrocks. I grew up an avid St. X fan, so after the big St. X-Trinity game when we were in college, he came in my dorm room when I wasn't there and decorated my walls with newspaper clippings from the game and Trinity signs. I thought it was so funny he took the time to do that. He had so much fun rubbing in the fact that Trinity beat St. X, but "Mr. Trinity" took the time to buy me a "Beat Trinity" t-shirt which he left on my bed. I loved that shirt and wore it until it was too old to wear anymore! I enjoyed those years hanging out with him at UK and have fun memories of working with him at the Mole Hole and Blairwood. He would always bring a smile to everyone's face.

Jon Venison

December 19, 2005

Stephen,

Thank you for the many memories and laughs that we shared. I could not have asked for a more loyal and trusted roommate and friend. You were always there when needed with a helping hand and smile and for that I will be forever grateful. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

JV

Donna Walsh

December 19, 2005

Tootie and Chris, Words cannot express the sadness that I know you must being feeling. I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May Steven rest in peace. May God give you the strength to deal with this loss.

Scott Hulse

December 19, 2005

I've played tennis against Stephen since we were both 12 years old. From the indoors at Louisville--where we played matches against each other until the wee hours in the morning--to the National Indoors in Chicago.



When Stephen was recruited to play at Kentucky I was excited to know I would be playing with him--not against him. What I didn't know when he was recruited was how much Stephen cared about the team. He played with a lot of heart..he never wanted to let his teammates down. And he never did.



To the Mather family, I share your loss, and hope you know what a lasting impression Stephen made on all of our lives.



Sincerely,

Roger Lu

December 19, 2005

I found out from my mother about Stephen's passing this weekend; I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I still have very fond memories of my conversations with him at the club. Oftentimes, we didn't talk about much of anything :), but there were several occasions where Stephen was such a helpful and supportive friend. No matter what situation, I was always struck by Stephen's good demeanor, kindness and humor. As a kid growing up, I viewed him as a role model for how to conduct oneself. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Roger

Ford Lankford

December 19, 2005

I am deeply saddened by the loss of Stephen, and my thoughts and prayers are with the Mather family. He was a great friend, teammate, competitor and champion, and will truly be missed inside and outside the tennis community.



Stephen will not only be remembered in Kentucky, but by his many friends around the country and the world as well. We'll never forget our teammate and friend.

Courtney Allen

December 19, 2005

I am so saddened by this news. Stephen was such a great guy and he touched so many lives both on and off the court.



To the Mather family - All I can say is I am just so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Joe Downing

December 19, 2005

We here at the Glasgow Recreation Department and the Weldon Tennis Association want to express our sympathy to all of you. We always enjoyed Stephen when he was here for the Weldon Tennis Tournament and he was always one of our favorite players and people to have in our tournament. He will be missed. All of you are in our prayers and thoughts.

julie Guess-Helmy

December 19, 2005

I was in such shock yesterday when I wrote that I didn't even spell Stephen right. I apologize. I'm still in shock. I'll miss your smiling face. You and Andy can keep each other company.

Your Friend,

Julie

"Curly" Davis

December 19, 2005

I have know Stephen and the Mather Family for 20+ years and I consider them my friends. I am deeply sadden by the news of Stephans passing. I was Stephen's tennis coach for many years and even travel with him to many tournaments and got to know him very well.



His sense of humor and looking at life in the abstract was always his great gift. I may have taught him tennis but he was teaching me how to look at life through different angles, the "teacher" was being "taught".



A funny story that I wish to pass on to all was Stephen and I were in Chicago for a junior tournament and he had lost and it was the day after Thanksgiving so I thought it would be a great side trip to go the the Water Tower Mall on Michigan Ave. so we did and it was PACKED with Christmas buyers. WE went into a toy store and in the back of the store was a "stuffed" maniquin with nothing on other than a fig-leaf over the "private parts" and a sign on the fig-leaf saying "Please don't lift the fig-leaf". I was to embarrassed to lift the fig-leaf so I asked Stephen to go do it and he quietly went over to the maniquin and proceded to lift the fig-leaf. At that time A spot-light hit him, Bells, whistles, horns started to blow!! He came running back to my side and we both had a GREAT laugh about. To this very day I still smile and laugh when I tell that story.



Finally, I once read, "A long life is not always good enough but a good life is ALWAYS long enough". Stephen you had a good life you helped many people smile and made ours lifes brighter.



I will smile when I think of you!



I love you and your family for allowing me to be apart of your life.



Your friend,



Curly

Tom Clements

December 19, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this tremendous loss.



Sincerely,

Tom, Paulette, AJ and Carly Clements

Cammie Byrd

December 19, 2005

Tootie and Innes, my thoughts and prayers continue to be with you. As a parent, I cannot begin to understand the pain and grief you must be feeling at the loss of Stephen. Chris and Michael, as the oldest of five children I cannot imagine losing one of my siblings.



A long time ago, my grandmother told me the hardest prayer to pray is "Thy will be done" and I think even harder yet is to understand "His will".



I hope that your faith and love for each other will carry you through this sorrowful time and lead you to peace and understanding.



May Stephen's soul rest in peace.

Jason Yeager

December 19, 2005

It seems like yesterday we were all packed into a van to nowhere for another forgettable tennis match. Thanks to you those days were unforgettable! Kentucky Tennis has lost a true friend and possibly the best one handed slice backhand of all time! Thanks for the Good Times, the Great Memories and Most of all your Friendship. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Mather family.

Debbie Hodge

December 19, 2005

I will always remember Stephen's smile. It went from one ear to the other, and it put a smile on everyone's face around him. What a gift to have. Your smile will be missed around the club but remembered by all who were fortunate to experience the warmth of it. Rest in Peace.

Debbie

Jim and Lisa Heffley

December 19, 2005

Dear Mather Family,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Stephen was a patient and thoughtful coach and his words of encouragement ("That was extraordinary!!!") will never be forgotten. He was wonderful with the younger children and Allison always refers to him as her funniest coach.



Our sincerest condolences are with your family.

Lori Vogel

December 19, 2005

Dear Mather Family,



Although I have not seen Stephen in many years, I still remember his kindness and humor. He was a dedicated friend who went above and beyond to help out. Please know that even after all these years I remember what a fine person he was. I was blessed to know him. I am so sorry for your loss.

Brian Moore

December 19, 2005

Dear Mather Family:

I am saddened to hear of Stephen's passing. He was truly a fantastic athlete and ambassador for the game of tennis and the state of Kentucky. The thoughts and prayers of the Moore family are with you.

Brandon Bowlds

December 19, 2005

Stephen was a very genuine person with a wonderful sense of humor. He remained grounded and unchanged as a person. Some of my fondest tennis memories were shared with him. My thoughts and prayers are with the Mather family at this very difficult time.

Barbara Watson

December 19, 2005

Warren called and told me about Steve's passing. I am so sorry. I remember how cute he was during their junior tennis years. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Mahyar Goodarz

December 19, 2005

Stephen’s one of those people you can’t and don’t want to forget. The amount of joy Stephen brought back at UK was, in his words, “like a fire at the circus – intense”. I spent so much time with Stephen and am so truly shocked that words can’t express it.



Such was Stephen’s character that when he heard that I’d had all my tennis racquets stolen, he sent me three new ones – all the way to Australia! I can’t describe the loss and wish the Mather family all the best at this tough time.



Stephen will be sorely missed.

Mike Miringoff

December 19, 2005

I remember seeing Stephen for the first time as he beat one of my friend's in the Boy's 12 National Claycourt Championships in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Besides being known as a great junior singles player, Stephen comprised half of one of the best doubles teams in the U.S...everyone knew the team of Mather-Rueff.



Stephen and I played on the University of Kentucky tennis team together. He was a great teammate and friend. As a friend, Stephen was very sensitive and very loyal. If you had him as your friend, he was always willing to help and was very caring. We shared many good times together both on and off the court. Who could forget Stephen's sense of humor...every practice, team match, road trip, team meal, night out...we always had something new to laugh about.



On the court, Stephen was an UNBELIEVABLE competitor...smart, feisty, stubborn, quick...a winner. He knew how to win and knew what he was capable of doing and not doing...every time he walked out on the court, I was confident that he would win a point for the team.



Stephen never wanted the spotlight, but he was as valuable as anyone else on the team. Although he did not demand attention, Stephen was very proud of his accomplishments and well aware of records and winning streaks that he could break both as a high school player in the state of Kentucky, as well as for the University. He took great pride in being from Kentucky and often spoke of Louisville, Trinity High School, his family and their restaurant, his mom's business, and his brothers accomplishments.



Stephen was a genuine person and I will always remember his smile, his laugh, and how much fun we had together. I was lucky to be a part of his life for those few years.



To the Mather family, I share in your loss and hope you know how highly Stephen spoke of all of you and how proud he was to have you as his family. My thoughts are with each of you and Stephen.



Sincerely,

Mike and Brandie Perry

December 18, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Our deepest sympathy for your loss.

Bob Brewer

December 18, 2005

To the Mather family,



My sincere sympathy goes out to your family on your recent loss.

Karen Eversole

December 18, 2005

Dear Mather Family-

There are no words that can describe how sorry I am for the loss of Stephen. I've known Stephen for many years going back to junior tennis when I would see him out on the courts while attending my sister Julie's matches. He was phenomenal. Later on in life our paths crossed again when Stephen became the coach for my 3.0 USTA team. He was so much fun to be around. I loved to hear his tennis phrases like "When in doubt, call it out" or "Hit it high, say goodbye." I remember one day he was so excited because one of his lessons had paid him with a check and in the memo line of the check the person wrote "1986 state champion". Stephen thought that was so cool. One of my favorite moments with Stephen happened in 2002 when he called me after a letter I wrote to Trinity had appeared in the Leader. The letter praised Trinity for all they had done for my son. Stephen , being the huge Trinity fan that he is, called me and we talked for 2 hours about Trinity and life in general. I will always treasure that conversation. I will miss seeing him at the Trinity games and on the courts but his smile will stay with me forever.



God Bless your family-

Karen Guess Eversole

Julie Guess-Helmy

December 18, 2005

The Mather Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Steven was a great person and friend. We used to hang out and talk alot at Blairwood. He use to joke all the time about having me having so many kids close together, but loved to play with them when he saw them. I was so lucky to have him as my partner in many tournaments we played together. He was a great competitor and teacher of the game. He always had something funny to say and made me laugh. I have nothing but good memories of Steven and always will. We miss you. May you rest in peace.

Love, Julie Guess Helmy

Jannine Soldan

December 18, 2005

Dear Mather Family,

I am so sorry to hear about Stephen's passing. He was a great pro at Springhurst and always full of laughs and smiles. My heart aches tremendously for you all. Chris, Tootie and the rest of your family, I will keep you in my prayers during this difficult time. I wish there was something I could do to help out. If there is, please let me know. We will all miss Stephen terribly. May God's peace be with you in this time of sadness.

Dan Van Himbergen

December 18, 2005

Dear Mather Family,



I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Stephen. He was a great individual who always brought a smile to my face whenever I was around him. His kindess and great sense of humor will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.

birgitt Marx

December 18, 2005

To the Mather family,

Words are failing, my heart goes out to the family and I wish you a lot of strength and faith to go through this loss. Moritz will very much miss his coach.

regards Birgitt

Nolan Gleason

December 18, 2005

I really don't know how to express how much I feel for the Mather family right now. Stephen was a joy to be around on the court and made me smile and enjoy tennis like no other. Chris and the entire Mather family will be in my prayers.

Gary Plock

December 18, 2005

I will forever remember the laughs I shared with you, Stephen, as we parked two broken down vans at two broken down courts to bring fun to teaching the kids who loved you.

You were in your finest hours, not only bringing your brother his due KTA night, but showing your love for him in the selection meetings.

You transcended tennis. Gary

Dan Burch

December 18, 2005

Steve was a wonderful person full of humility and humor. Everyone I encountered always praised what a wonderful human being he was. I'm sure he is properly showing St. Peter the grip on a forehand as we speak. God bless the Mather Family in this time of sorrow.



John 14: 1-6

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me.



In my Father's house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?



And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be.



Where (I) am going you know the way."



Thomas said to him, "Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?"



Jesus said to him, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

Tara Hubbuch

December 18, 2005

I am so sorry to hear about Stephen. He had a huge heart and was always willing to do anything for anyone. I will never forget when he offered to move me to Chicago in sub-zero temperatures and the "adventure" we had there (getting stuck in the elevator full of furniture and my car being towed). Despite the stressful first day, he still made me laugh. In college after I was released from the hospital, he was the first to arrive at my house asking what groceries and medicine I needed. He was one of a kind and will truly be missed.

Linda Horvat

December 18, 2005

Stephen we will miss you at the Tennis Club, You were patient and full of kindness. I liked your tennis instructions. You always made me feel really comfortable.

There was such a feeling of loss at the club yesterday. To the whole Mather family, you have my love and support through this difficult time.



Sincerely,

Linda Horvat

Doris Detlefs

December 18, 2005

Tootie and Ennis,



My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours,

Love, Doris

Kenny Ott

December 18, 2005

I want to express my sincere condolences to Steve's family. I met Steve several years ago when I joined a usta team out of Springhurst and he was our pro. He not only helped me with my tennis game but he became a friend who would take time to call me just to see how I liked a new racquet or type of strings that he had put in the racquet. He was the person who found the right racquet for me that I still use today. He continued to string my racquets for me about once every three weeks and he would go out of his way to help me. Just about 4 weeks ago when I broke my strings at Blairwood, I called him as I was leaving the club and he was just leaving his apartment to get his car washed at the shell station at Hurstbourne and Blairwood and met me there in several minutes. I was not home for hardly more than 30 minutes when he called me to let me know that my racquet was ready to be picked up. I know that this is just but one small story about Steve but this captures my memory of him as the truly caring person that he always has been.

Chad McRae

December 17, 2005

I am truly sorry for the loss of Steve. I'll always remember him as a good-hearted person who had a funny sense of humor. My prayers are with your family .

Sincerely, Chad

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Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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